River Plate returns from La Bombonera with a draw

CAIRO – 12 November 2018: River Plate achieved a 2-2 draw against their arch rivals, Boca Juniors, on Sunday night at Copa Libertadores final's first leg held at Boca’s stadium, La Bombonera.

Both teams faced for the first time at Copa Libertadores final and the host team fans packed their stadium to support their team against their fiercest rivals.

Ramón Ábila opened the score for the host team after 34 minutes from a strike but River Plate equalized a minute later by their striker, Lucas Prattoo.

Darío Benedetto scored Boca’s second goal at the game seconds before the half time to make the score 2-1 for the hosts.

At the second half, River Plate equalized after 15 minutes by an own goal from Boca’s defender, Carlos Izquierdoz.

Boca dominated the game after River’s second goal and Boca Juniors manager, Guillermo Barros Schelotto, gave the chance to their veteran striker, Carlos Tevez, to play at the last 15 minutes.

Tevez created many chances for Benedetto to add the third goal but the striker failed to convert them to end the game 2-2.



“I think we were the better side on the field, but River played their game, and caused us some trouble on occasion and now it will be to the Monumental to settle it.” Boca manager, Schelotto, told press after the game.

The second leg will be played two weeks later at River Plate stadium, La Monumental.